Buying Your Own Health Insurance? You May Be Able To Get Help To Pay For It

share

Go to Healthcare.gov to see if you qualify for federal dollars that will lower your premium and other health care costs

If you need to buy your own health insurance for 2018, it could be much more affordable than you think. Millions of Americans qualify for financial assistance from the federal government that helps them pay for their premiums, or afford their medical bills.

If you qualify for premium tax credits: The premium you will need to pay for your plan could be much lower. In fact, if you bought your own insurance before, you could receive a higher premium tax credit for 2018. That’s a bigger savings for you! Take a look at all of the various plans available through the marketplace in your state.

If you qualify for premium tax credits and reduced cost sharing: You can choose to buy a plan that covers more of the medical costs that come out of your pocket. These costs include charges that you usually pay when you see a doctor or get a prescription, such as copays and deductibles. Remember, these savings are only available if you buy a silver level plan.

If you don’t qualify for either type of financial help: You’ll still want to look at all the plans available through your state’s marketplace. You can also buy a plan outside of the marketplace or off-exchange. Contact a health insurance provider directly or a health insurance broker in your area to learn more.

No matter where you choose to buy your coverage, be sure that you know what your plan covers – and what it doesn’t. Check the plans network to make sure it includes your doctors and your prescriptions. This will help avoid unpleasant surprises later – and ensure that you have a plan that’s right for you.

MyHealthPlan.guide Has The Answers

The more you know about your health insurance coverage, the easier it is to take your health into your own hands. Visit MyHealthPlan.guide for any questions AHIP and the National Consumers League (NCL) can answer for you – like the difference between in-network and out-of-network providers.